Archives for July 2016

Earthquake April 16, 2016 7.8 Magnitude

Here’s how I was able to volunteer in Ecuador. After watching all those movies about apocalypse on the bus rides in Ecuador. It’s weird to think that there actually was an earthquake days later. Crazy fact there was a movie to be aired on Ecuador TV called Earthquake. But it was cut off by the news on the earthquake… It happened when we were eating at an Indian Restaurant in Cuenca. When all the sudden we felt the floor vibrate, and wall decorations began to sway. Then we heard ladies in the kitchen start to scream.

Literally minutes before the earthquake. Might I add the most delicious garlic naan bread ever!

I had seen at the park donation drop offs for the victims of the earthquake. I knew I wanted to help but I didn’t have much money. It just so happened that at the end of my trip, a friend asked me if I wanted to volunteer at the city hall with donations. It was on my last day but I still had the chance to help out.

I helped by sorting through bags of clothing then organized them by sizes, and put labels on the bags.

Lend a helping hand.

Volunteering can be a way to contribute without giving money. Time is valuable, and so are helping hands! One of the 6 basic human needs is contribution. We feel good when we are giving back to others. So whenever you have the opportunity to help out say yes! It can also be fun, and put a new perspective on life.

Have you volunteered after a natural disaster or volunteered for any reason? Please comment below. I’d love to hear about your experiences.

Adventures in Ecuador March 2016

Earlier this year I took a three-week trip down to Ecuador to visit my Grandma. It seemed so long that I felt like I had moved there. The produce at the market was cheap. Although some things were not available, and if they were it was expensive.

The Adventures Began In Quito Area

My trip started out near by Quito airport which isn’t in Quito, but a small town called Tababela. Then after we went by bus to Otavalo. Which has the best market for souvenirs. But always remember to haggle when you’re buying things. Some will try to take advantage of you, and over price things.

Otavalo Market

What I couldn’t get over the first few days. The biggest culture shock for me being animal lover was seeing all the dogs wondering loose. And I am a cat person. It was sad for me…

This sweet little dog waiting outside a grocery store.

Tonsupa Beach

Soon after Otavalo we got on the next bus, and several other buses to reach Tonsupa finally!! Talk about are we there yet?!!?! It was so hot coming from Oregon weather it was unbearable for me LOL!

Cuenca

After coconuts on the beach we were off to destination Cuenca. We made Cuenca our base. So we could travel by bus(about $7.50) to Vilcabamba and(I think it was 50 cents) near by Banos. Then go back to the hostel for our resting point. Cuenca has many sites to see. We visited the Museo Pumapungo which is free. In the back outside you can walk around the archaeological site of the Inca ruins it’s beautiful. There is also the bird sanctuary a side from the ruins.

Vilcabamba Valley of Longevity

Vilcabama has gotten popular with the gringos for its spring time year-round weather. It has a small town vibe that’s appealing too. In fact you will see allot of gringos there. The land is very lush, and green. I loved it!

Cuenca Or Vilcabamba

If I had to choose my favorite city it would be either Cuenca or Vilcabamba. The scenery is great in Vilcabamba. But I also like the city of Cuenca because of the availability of things.

Do you know of any fun or exciting places to visit in Ecuador? Please comment below or send me an e-mail, I’d love to hear about your adventure’s!

Hey

♥Welcome to my masterpiece in the making! I'm Alicia, a proud cat mom of two feline sons Prince Michael, and Wesley. All three of us are Tauruses. I am passionate about exploring, helping animals, photography, and having fun! ♥

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